Commission
/kəˈmɪʃən/
Definitions
3 meaningsAn official order, usually given to a person or group, to perform a particular task or function.
/kəˈmɪʃən/
An instruction, command, or order.
The artist received a commission to paint a portrait.
💡 Simply: It's like getting a special job to do something important, like painting a picture for someone or leading soldiers into battle.
👶 For kids: It's like getting a task or a job to do something!
More Examples
The police officer was given a commission to investigate the crime.
How It's Used
"The general issued a commission to capture the enemy stronghold."
"The artist received a commission to paint a portrait of the king."
A fee or percentage paid to an agent or salesperson for their services, typically a percentage of the sales they generate.
/kəˈmɪʃən/
A percentage of sales given as payment.
She earns a commission on every house she sells.
💡 Simply: It's like a reward for selling things! You get a little bit of the money for each item you sell.
👶 For kids: Extra money for selling stuff!
More Examples
The salesperson received a large commission for closing the deal.
How It's Used
"The salesperson earned a commission on each car sold."
To officially appoint someone to a position, rank, or office.
/kəˈmɪʃən/
To officially appoint someone to a position.
The new officer was commissioned into the service.
💡 Simply: It's like officially giving someone a job, especially an important one, like making someone an officer in the army.
👶 For kids: Giving someone a special job.
More Examples
The queen commissioned the building of the new palace.
How It's Used
"The lieutenant was commissioned into the army."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle French comission, from Old French comission, from Latin commissio, from committere "to entrust, commit"
Historically, the term commission was primarily associated with military and governmental appointments, later expanding to include sales and artistic endeavors.
Memory tip
Think of 'committing' to a task; a commission is a formal commitment.
Word Origin
"to entrust, commit"